How to compare gas and electricity
Last updated: 22 October 2026
Energy bills are made of two parts, a price per unit of energy you use and a daily standing charge. Understanding both makes comparing tariffs much easier.
1. Unit rate and standing charge
The unit rate is what you pay per kilowatt hour (kWh) used. The standing charge is a fixed daily amount you pay even if you use nothing. Low users should pay attention to standing charges, high users to unit rates.
2. The Ofgem price cap
The price cap limits unit rates and standing charges on standard variable tariffs, not your total bill. For October to December 2026 the average cap for direct debit is 26.32p per kWh plus 54.83p a day for electricity, and 7.97p per kWh plus 29.68p a day for gas. That's about £1,723 a year for a typical dual-fuel home. Rates vary by region.
3. Fixed or variable?
A fixed tariff locks your rates for a set time, often 12 or 18 months, so you know what you'll pay. A variable tariff moves with the price cap each quarter. Compare a fix with the current cap rates for your region.
4. Exit fees
Some fixed tariffs charge a fee to leave early. You can usually switch without a fee in the last 49 days of a fixed deal.
5. Have your details ready
Your postcode, recent bill and annual usage in kWh help you get accurate quotes. Your new supplier handles the switch, and your supply won't be interrupted.
Before you buy
Our listings are dated snapshots of providers' own pages, not live prices. Always check the price, contract length and terms on the provider's website. Nothing here is financial or insurance advice.